Lemon Barbecue Chicken: A Flavorful, Quick Delight
If you’re a fan of barbecued chicken with a zesty twist, this Lemon Barbecue Chicken recipe will surely become a favorite. Discovered in a well-loved recipe book with pages yellowed by time, this dish has been a family favorite for years. The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in the way garlic is prepared—crushed instead of minced—along with the bright punch of lemon and the smoky goodness of outdoor grilling. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe is both easy to make and packed with delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup chopped onions
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade:
- In a glass baking dish, combine the salt, pepper, crushed garlic, lemon juice, chopped onions, and dried thyme. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly. This marinade will infuse the chicken with a delightful mix of flavors.
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Marinate the Chicken:
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts to ensure they grill evenly. Place the chicken breasts into the prepared marinade, making sure they are well-coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight if time permits.
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Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 12-14 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should have a beautiful char and a slightly smoky flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful. Serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy a meal that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 324.7
- Fat: 24.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.8 g
- Cholesterol: 72.6 mg
- Sodium: 362.8 mg
- Carbohydrates: 2.7 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sugar: 0.7 g
- Protein: 23.9 g
This Lemon Barbecue Chicken recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend barbecue. With just 25 minutes of total time, including preparation and cooking, you can enjoy a meal that’s both easy and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon, and thyme creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy this easy-to-make, zesty barbecue chicken at your next meal! 🍗🍋🔥